Harper named Regency chairman and CEO

Fox Filmed Entertainment (FFE) vice chairman Robert Harper has been named chairman and chief executive officer of Regency Filmed Entertainment. He replaces David Matalon who left the company earlier this month to return to his own production company.

Harper will oversee Fox-based Regency's film production unit, New Regency Productions, as well as Regency Television. Fox distributes Regency titles, and Regency Television is a joint venture between Regency and Fox Television Studios.

Harper arrived at Fox 22 years ago and was promoted to FFE vice chairman in 2004, when he assumed global strategic, creative and managerial responsibilities for 20th Century Fox, Fox 2000, Fox Searchlight, Fox Atomic, and 20th Century Fox Animation.

He enjoyed a stint as a producer in 1991 when he set up the Fox-based Featherstone Productions and developed Rookie Of The Year. He returned to the studio in 1995 as Fox's marketing president.

Prior to Fox, Harper served as vice president and general manager of Kaleidoscope Films from 1979 to 1984.

'I have worked closely with Bob over the nine years Regency has been partnered with Fox and during that time I have seen what a consummate professional and visionary businessman he is,' Regency founder Arnon Milchan said. 'I look forward to Bob taking the helm of Regency as we work to capitalise on our partnership with Fox.'

'Bob has been an invaluable partner, a fundamental component of our success, and a true friend over the years,' FFE chairmen Tom Rothman and Jim Gianopulos said.

'While we will miss Bob's daily counsel and guidance, we're fortunate that we will continue working closely with him in his new role at Regency. We value our partnership with Regency and think the company could not be in more capable hands than under his expert direction.'

New Regency's credits include Mr And Mrs Smith, LA Confidential, JFK, The Devil's Advocate, Unfaithful, and A Time To Kill.

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